PM encourages debate over schools

Prime Minister John Howard has defended his criticisms of government schools, saying there needs to be a debate on why so many parents send their children to private schools.

Mr Howard last week sparked controversy by saying state schools are too politically correct and "values-neutral".

He told Channel Nine his comments were not meant to denigrate teachers and were not directed at all public schools.

He says it is absurd that he cannot criticise government schools without being accused of being divisive.

"I think we should debate these issues and I think people should understand that when in impressive numbers people opt to go out of the public system, then it may well be that some of the reasons they advance are worth looking at and some of the concerns they express should be listened to," he said.